Corporate leadership of cities is at an all-time low. Business consolidations swallowed many of the local banks and newspapers that once called the shots in cities, and globalization has broadened the horizons of surviving companies. But as CEOs step back, others are stepping forward, including philanthropists.
BY Otis White

In most places, traffic cops don't get no respect for hanging around to nab drivers for their sins. In Seattle, however, two motorcycle cops are revered for patrolling a freeway ramp to stop drivers who cut in line.
BY Ellen Perlman

There may not be an American equivalent for "witches' knickers"--the British phrase that describes plastic grocery bags caught in tree branches--but the flimsy, disposable bags are a growing problem here, and some states and localities are starting to take action.
BY Zach Patton